FireSafe Brentwood

Dr. Keeley's presentation is part of FireSafe Brentwood's (BHA's California Fire Safe Council) multi-year plan to help our community better prepare for wildfire. In addition to educating our members on how to minimize risk to their homes from fire, FireSafe Brentwood will also be working to implement homeowner training on creating defensible space as well as hardening our homes. More information to follow in the months ahead.

From the Experts: CalFire on Instagram

Many of you have wondered why trees often remain standing after a wildfire, even when nearby houses and structures are destroyed. The answer lies in the difference between wildfires and conflagrations.

Wildfire vs. Conflagration

In a wildfire, flames often move as a front, consuming vegetation but not always spreading to everything in their path. Conflagrations, on the other hand, occur when one structure catches fire and spreads through flammable connections, like wood fences, igniting house after house. This also occurs more easily due to the intense heat produced by a structure fire coupled with the close proximity of structures.

Why Trees Survive

Some trees have natural adaptation to withstand fire.

Thick Bark: Acts as a heat shield, protecting the inner layers.
Natural Shape: Sheds embers and debris, reducing ignition risk.
Moisture Content: Higher moisture content than older building materials slows the spread of fire.

While trees may still be singed, they are often less flammable than structures.

Why Homes Are More Vulnerable
Houses are built with materials and features that make them prone to ignition:

Combustible Materials: Wood siding and roofing can ignite quickly, especially from nearby fires.
Openings & Vents: Embers can enter and spark fires inside, even from a distance.
Heat Traps: Flat surfaces and air currents can intensify flames once they reach the interior.

Removing flammable items within the first five feet (Zone 0) of a home creates a defensible space, helping to break the pathway for wildfire spread and reducing the risk of flames reaching structures.

Learn how to prepare at ReadyForWildfire.org.